* This article contains spoilers
The series follows Kang Hyo Min (Jung Chaeyeon), a trainee lawyer who joins the prestigious Yulim law firm. As the top graduate in law from Seoul National University – South Korea's leading university – Hyo Min has an impressive academic background. However, she quickly realizes that classroom theory isn't enough to handle real-world cases.
She works under the guidance of Yoon Seok Hoon (Lee Jin Wook), a veteran lawyer known for his aloofness and adherence to principles. Initially, Seok Hoon is displeased with Hyo Min's carefree nature, but he gradually recognizes her sharp mind and persistence. For Hyo Min, the conflicts and challenges help her mature.
The series explores many facets of the legal profession, where the line between right and wrong is often blurred. The employees at Yulim face complex cases and internal struggles involving power, generational clashes, and differing professional consciences. This makes the show engaging, especially for young people entering the workforce.
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Lead actors Jung Chae Yeon (left) and Yoon Seok Hoon. Photo: Netflix |
Lead actors Jung Chae Yeon (left) and Yoon Seok Hoon. Photo: Netflix
Each episode revolves around a separate case, crafted by screenwriter Park Mi Hyeon, a practicing lawyer, based on her real-world experiences. The series incorporates legal knowledge and reflects social issues like domestic violence and class discrimination.
The show explores multifaceted situations. Through each trial, both Hyo Min and Seok Hoon confront the conflict between reason and emotion, between the rigidity of the law and empathy. According to MyDramaList, Lee Jin Wook explained his reason for accepting the role: "I was drawn to how the series depicts cases without clear boundaries between good and evil,".
Director Kim Jae Hong told SportChosun that while the series' theme is law, its core is a "human story". He emphasized, "I wanted to portray complex emotions: love, regret, and anger, the feelings hidden behind lawsuits,".
With his extensive acting experience, Lee Jin Wook delivers a natural performance, portraying his character's cold demeanor while hinting at underlying pain. Meanwhile, Jung Chaeyeon (former member of I.O.I) receives praise for her transition to a more mature role. However, she also faces some criticism regarding her expressions, particularly in scenes requiring emotional depth.
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Lee Jin Wook's performance garnered attention, particularly in the scene where he rescues a girl in a domestic violence case. Photo: Netflix |
Lee Jin Wook's performance garnered attention, particularly in the scene where he rescues a girl in a domestic violence case. Photo: Netflix
On online film forums, some viewers express reservations about the romantic subplot. Some argue the relationship between Kang Hyo Min and Yoon Seok Hoon should remain professional due to their age gap. Others believe a well-developed romance could enhance the series and highlight both characters' growth.
According to Nielsen Korea, despite low initial expectations, the series became the most-watched program in its time slot. Episode 1 achieved an average viewership rating of 3.7% nationwide and nearly 4% in the Seoul metropolitan area, doubling by episode 4, which aired on 10/8.
Thu Giang
